Leviticus 12:7

And the priest will present them before the LORD and make atonement for her; and she shall be ceremonially cleansed from her flow of blood. This is the law for a woman giving birth, whether to a male or to a female.

Study Bible

Then he shall present it before the LORD
The phrase "Then he shall present it before the LORD" refers to the priest's role in the sacrificial system. The Hebrew word for "present" is "qarab," which means to bring near or to offer. This act of presenting the offering signifies the approach to God, acknowledging His holiness and the need for mediation. In the ancient Israelite context, the priest acted as an intermediary, highlighting the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. This foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Christ, who brings believers directly into God's presence.

to make atonement for her
The concept of "atonement" is central to the sacrificial system. The Hebrew word "kaphar" means to cover or to make reconciliation. Atonement involves the covering of sin, allowing for reconciliation between the individual and God. This reflects the gravity of sin and the necessity of a sacrificial substitute. In the New Testament, this is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice provides the ultimate atonement for sin, reconciling humanity to God once and for all.

and she will be cleansed from her flow of blood
The phrase "and she will be cleansed from her flow of blood" addresses the ritual impurity associated with childbirth. The Hebrew word for "cleansed" is "taher," meaning to be pure or clean. In the ancient context, blood was a powerful symbol of life and death, and its flow rendered a person ritually unclean. The cleansing process allowed the woman to re-enter the community and participate in worship. This underscores the importance of purity and holiness in approaching God, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

This is the law for a woman giving birth
"This is the law for a woman giving birth" establishes the divine ordinance regarding childbirth. The Hebrew word for "law" is "torah," which means instruction or teaching. This law underscores God's concern for order and purity within the community. It also reflects the sanctity of life and the recognition of God's sovereignty over creation. The law serves as a reminder of the need for holiness and the provision of God's grace in the midst of life's natural processes.

whether to a male or to a female
The phrase "whether to a male or to a female" indicates the inclusivity of the law, applying equally to the birth of a son or a daughter. This highlights the equal value of both genders in God's eyes, a principle that is consistent throughout Scripture. In a historical context where male offspring were often more highly valued, this law affirms the inherent worth and dignity of all human life, reflecting the image of God in every person.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who provides laws and instructions for His people.

2. The Priest
The mediator who performs the ritual offerings and makes atonement on behalf of the woman.

3. The Woman
A mother who has given birth and is undergoing the purification process as prescribed by the law.

4. The Offering
A sacrifice made to the LORD, which includes a burnt offering and a sin offering, symbolizing atonement and purification.

5. The Tabernacle
The place where the offerings are made, representing God's dwelling among His people.

Teaching Points

Understanding Atonement
The concept of atonement in Leviticus 12:7 underscores the need for reconciliation with God. It points to the seriousness of sin and impurity and the necessity of a mediator, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role in making atonement highlights the importance of mediation in the Old Testament, which foreshadows Christ as our ultimate High Priest who intercedes for us.

Purification and Holiness
The purification process signifies the call to holiness and the separation from impurity. It reminds believers of the need for spiritual cleansing and living a life set apart for God.

The Value of Obedience
The adherence to God's laws, as seen in the purification rites, reflects the importance of obedience to God's commands. It encourages believers to live in accordance with God's Word.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The offerings symbolize the cost of sin and the need for a substitute. This points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who paid the price for our sins once and for all.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 12:7 foreshadow the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways does the purification process in Leviticus 12:7 emphasize the importance of holiness in the life of a believer?

3. How can understanding the concept of atonement in the Old Testament deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice?

4. What lessons can we learn from the obedience required in the purification laws, and how can we apply them to our daily walk with God?

5. How does the symbolism of sacrifice in Leviticus 12:7 enhance our understanding of the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 15
Discusses laws regarding bodily discharges, emphasizing the need for purification and the role of the priest in atonement.

Luke 2:22-24
Mary and Joseph's adherence to the purification laws after Jesus' birth, highlighting the continuity of the law and its fulfillment in Christ.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Compares the purification rites of the Old Testament with the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice, emphasizing the superiority of the new covenant.